aspirin

noun

as·​pi·​rin ˈa-sp(ə-)rən 

plural aspirin or aspirins

1

: a white crystalline derivative C₉H₈O₄ of salicylic acid used for relief of pain and fever

2

: a tablet of aspirin

Examples of aspirin in a Sentence

Aspirin is effective in controlling headaches.

Recent Examples on the Web

Even aspirin or acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol) can be toxic in high enough doses. —Lauren J. Young, Scientific American, 20 Feb. 2026

Well who needs a stent placement and an and aspirin and statin? —Bethy Squires, Vulture, 15 Feb. 2026

Speaking of unpredictable situations, this multi-pocketed personal first-aid carrier is another smart investment, and can be used to hold a range of medical supplies, including gauze, band-aids, aspirins, and more. —Michelle Baricevic, Travel + Leisure, 10 Feb. 2026

The other half who had a positive test were told and their doctors started them on a regimen of low-dose aspirin, a vaginal suppository of progesterone and weekly check-in calls with a nurse. —Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 7 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from acetyl + spiraeic acid (former name of salicylic acid), from New Latin Spiraea, genus of shrubs — more at spirea

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

aspirin

noun

as·​pi·​rin ˈas-p(ə-)rən 

1

: a white drug used as a remedy for pain and fever

2

: a tablet of aspirin

Medical Definition

aspirin

noun

as·​pi·​rin ˈas-p(ə-)rən 

plural aspirin or aspirins

1

: a white crystalline derivative C₉H₈O₄ of salicylic acid used for relief of pain and fever

2

: a tablet of aspirin